A UNESCO World Heritage site, Gros Morne National Park protects an area of impressive natural beauty, rural Newfoundland culture, and unique geological wonders. The park's namesake mountain, Gros Morne, is the second highest point in Newfoundland at 806 metres.

The park is located in the Long Range mountains, an extension of the Appalachian chain running up the west coast of the island of Newfoundland. The landscape of the park is mountainous and rugged, and has a number of interesting geological features, including a number of fjords and the barren Tablelands.

Most visitors to Gros Morne will probably either fly in to the airport at Deer Lake, about an hour away, and rent a car there (a number of major rental companies have a presence), or take the ferry [1] from North Sydney in Nova Scotia. Note that reservations for the ferry are essential.

A car is probably the most convenient way to get around - the park is huge, and things are far apart. Biking may also be an option, if you don't mind lots of hills.

Be careful if you choose to drive at night - moose are often spotted on the roads in Newfoundland, and collisions are common. An adult moose can weigh well over a ton, and hitting one at highway speeds is likely to be fatal. Moose are most active around dawn and dusk, so be vigilant if you're driving at those times.

There are lots of great hiking trails in the park, ranging from fairly short, relaxing walks to the challenging climb up Gros Morne mountain. Don't miss the Tablelands, and the view from the top of the mountain really is worth the hike.

The boat tour on Western Brook Pond is worth taking (it's seasonal, though).

Explore the villages and towns within the park - there are lots of small shops and restaurants.

Gros Morne Adventures, Norris Point (end of the road), ☎1-800-685-4624, [2]. The only sea kayaking shop in the park, a great way to experience Bonne Bay. Guided interpretive tours, and also rentals enable you to see wildlife and the bay up close and personal. Regular sightings of bald eagles, whales and all kinds of sea life. These guys also offer guided hiking tours, and many options for different skill levels. edit

The Cat Stop, Norris Point (end of the road, turn left). The only pub in Norris Point, this place is bouncin' on Thursday nights during the summer. Open Mic night is great fun with live music and a good mix of locals, tourists and summer workers. Anyone can jump on stage to perform. The pub also has cheap beer nights twice a week, and offers a Booze Cruise 3 times a week during summer months (the booze cruise goes around the bay). The pub also offers Water Taxi service that leaves 3 times per day and goes to Woody Point across the bay.edit

There are a number of primitive and backcountry campsites scattered around the park - reservations through Parks Canada are often required. Backcountry hiking and camping requires additional fees and permits.

Encounters with wildlife can be a real concern, even on short, front-country hikes. Bears, moose, caribou and other large animals are common in the park, so be sure you know what to do should you run in to one. Ask the park staff if you're not sure.

Some of the hikes in the park can be challenging, and weather conditions can change rapidly. It's a good idea to always carry plenty of water, some food, and rain gear.